Vitamin B12 deficiency in newly weaned goat kids associated with clinical infection with Eimeria arloingi / Deficiência de vitamina B12 em cabritos recém-desmamados associada à infecção clínica por Eimeria arloingi

Abstract A severe outbreak of diarrhea associated with poor growth was reported in ten newly weaned goat kids that originated from a research farm (Group A). Two of these kids underwent necropsy examination. Five goat kids of the same age maintained in the same pen showed no clinical signs (Group B). The clinical, gross pathological and histopathological features of the clinically sick animals were consistent with severe coccidiosis. Group A animals had significantly lower levels of serum vitamin B12 (<200 pg/ml) compared with group B animals (2000 pg/ml). In addition, kids belonging to group A had significantly higher Eimeria arloingi oocysts per gram (OPG) of faeces (101,400/g) compared with kids of group B (9,154/g). Microscopy and molecular tools (18S rRNA and COI genes) confirmed that the goat kids were infected with the caprine protozoan parasite E. arloingi. This study provides a definitive association between low levels of serum vitamin B12 and clinical E. arloingi infection, and also provides support to our previous studies that demonstrated how low levels of serum vitamin B12 leads to an impairment of neutrophil function and thereby potential lowered immunity to pathogens.

Resumo Um surto grave de diarreia, associado à baixo crescimento, foi relatado em dez cabritos recém-desmamados, originários de uma fazenda de pesquisa (Grupo A). Dois animais foram submetidos a exame necroscópico. Cinco cabritos da mesma idade e mantidos na mesma instalação não apresentaram sinais clínicos (Grupo B). As características clínicas e as lesões macroscópicas e microscópicas dos animais clinicamente doentes eram consistentes com coccidiose grave. Os animais do grupo A apresentaram níveis significativamente mais baixos de vitamina B12 sérica (<200 pg / ml) em comparação com os animais do grupo B (2000 pg/ml). Além disso, os animais pertencentes ao grupo A apresentaram um número de oocistos de Eimeria arloingi por grama (OPG) de fezes (101,400/g) significativamente mais alto do que os animais do grupo B (9,154/g). As análises microscópica e molecular (genes 18S rRNA e COI) confirmaram que os cabritos estavam infectados com o protozoário E. arloingi. Este estudo fornece uma associação definitiva entre baixos níveis de vitamina B12 no soro e infecção clínica por E. arloingi. Também fornece suporte aos estudos anteriores, que demonstraram como baixos níveis de vitamina B12 no soro comprometem a função dos neutrófilos e, consequentemente, a imunidade a patógenos.

Prevalence and risk factors for Cysticercus tenuicollis in goats and sheep in Paraíba, northeastern Brazil / Prevalência e fatores de risco para Cysticercus tenuicollis em caprinos e ovinos na Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors for C. tenuicollis among goats and sheep in slaughterhouses in Paraíba. 390 animals (195 goats and 195 sheep) in the municipalities of Patos and Esperança, Paraíba, Brazil, were inspected between February and May 2014. The prevalence of C. tenuicollis was 39% (76/195) in goats and 17.4% (34/195) in sheep. In both species, most of the cysticerci vesicles were located at the omentum and mesentery. The only risk factor found was extensive sheep farming. It can be concluded that C. tenuicollis is highly prevalent in small ruminants in Paraíba, being more prevalent in goats than in sheep. Extensively-reared sheep were twice as likely to develop infection by this parasite.

Resumo Objetivou-se determinar a prevalência e os fatores de riscos de C. tenuicollis em caprinos e ovinos nos matadouros da Paraíba. Foram inspecionados 390 animais (195 caprinos e 195 ovinos) nos municípios de Patos e Esperança, Paraíba, Brasil, no período de Fevereiro a Maio de 2014. A prevalência de C. tenuicollis em caprinos foi de 39% (76/195) e em ovinos de 17,4% (34/195). Os locais mais acometidos por C. tenuicollis nas duas espécies foram o omento e o mesentério. O único fator de risco encontrado foi a produção extensiva de ovinos. Pode-se concluir que é alta a prevalência de C. tenuicollis em pequenos ruminantes no Estado da Paraíba, sendo mais prevalente na espécie caprina; e que ovinos criados de forma extensiva apresentam duas vezes mais riscos de contrais a infecção por este parasita.

Trombiculiasis in domestic goats and humans in the state of Maranhão, Brazil / Trombiculíase em caprinos domésticos e humanos no Estado do Maranhão, Brasil

Abstract Trombiculiasis is an infestation caused by larval mites (chiggers) of the family Trombiculidae. Here, we provide the first report on parasitism by the chigger species Eutrombicula alfreddugesi (Oudemans) and Eutrombicula batatas (Linnaeus) in goats and humans on farms in the state of Maranhão, northeastern Brazil. Severe itching and dermatitis caused by the chiggers' bites were seen. From a total of 779 examined goats, 214 of them showed clinical signs of infestation, as well as family members of three farms of the region. Most of the cases occurred during the rainy season, from March to September.

Resumo Trombiculíase é uma infestação causada por larvas de ácaros da família Trombiculidae. Nós reportamos pela primeira vez parasitismo por ácaros das espécies Eutrombicula alfreddugesi (Oudemans) and Eutrombicula batatas (Linnaeus) em cabras e humanos em fazendas no estado do Maranhão, nordeste do Brasil. Foram observadas dermatite e coceiras severas causadas pelas picadas de trombiculídeos. De um total de 779 cabras examinadas, 214 delas apresentaram sinais clínicos de infestações, assim como membros de três famílias de fazendeiros da região. A maioria dos casos ocorreu durante a estação chuvosa, de março a setembro.

Overview of anthelmintic resistance of gastrointestinal nematodes of small ruminants in Brazil / Panorama da resistência anti-helmíntica em nematoides gastrointestinais de pequenos ruminantes no Brasil

Abstract Frequent and inappropriate use of all classes of antiparasitic drugs in small ruminants has led to failures in their effectiveness, culminating in a global problem of anthelmintic resistance. Brazil stands out as one of the world’s leaders in publications about anthelmintic resistance, and for having the most numerous reports of this resistance in small ruminants in the Americas. These studies have involved mainly the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) and its correlation with field management practices. In vivoeffectiveness testing is conducted in areas where livestock is of greater economic significance, e.g., in the South (sheep) and Northeast (goats), or is important for research and economic centers, such as the Southeast (sheep). The most widely studied species is sheep, for which the widest range of drugs is also evaluated. Despite significant advances achieved in molecular research, laboratory analyses should include knowledge about the reality in the field so that they can become feasible for the producer. Moreover, molecular studies can be underpinned by the analysis of field studies, such as the maintenance of antiparasitic effectiveness over time and the mechanisms involved in this process.

Resumo O uso frequente e inapropriado de todas as classes de antiparasitários em pequenos ruminantes levou a falhas de eficácia, culminando na problemática global de resistência anti-helmíntica. O Brasil destaca-se como sendo um dos pioneiros nas publicações com resistência anti-helmíntica no mundo e por ter o maior número de relatos em pequenos ruminantes na América. Essas pesquisas envolvem principalmente o teste da redução da contagem de ovos nas fezes (TRCOF) e sua correlação com as práticas de manejo utilizadas no campo. Os estudos de testes de eficácia in vivo localizam-se em áreas onde há maior importância dos rebanhos como nas Regiões Sul (ovinos) e Nordeste (caprinos), ou com importância em polos de pesquisa e econômicos, como a região Sudeste (ovinos). Ovina é a espécie mais estudada e com maior gama de drogas avaliadas. Mesmo com grande avanço em pesquisas moleculares, as análises laboratoriais devem envolver o conhecimento da realidade do campo para que possam se tornar viáveis ao produtor. Além disso, a análise dos estudos de campo pode nortear estudos moleculares como, por exemplo, a manutenção da eficácia das drogas ao longo dos anos e os mecanismos envolvidos em tal processo.

Seroprevalence and risk factors for Neospora caninum in goats in Santa Catarina state, Brazil / Soroprevalência e fatores de risco para Neospora caninum em caprinos no estado Santa Catarina, Brasil

Neosporosis is an infectious disease caused by the parasite Neospora caninum. Knowledge regarding neosporosis in goats is still quite limited, especially in the state of Santa Catarina (SC), southern Brazil. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the seroprevalence and risk factors for N. caninum in goats in the western and mountain regions of SC. Blood samples were collected from 654 goats in 57 municipalities. The indirect immunofluorescence test was used for antibody detection against N. caninum. Thirty samples (4.58%) were seropositive, with titers ranging from 1:50 to 1:6400. An epidemiological survey was also conducted in order to identify risk factors for neosporosis in goats. It was found that reproductive problems on the farms, as well as the diet and direct contact with dogs were casual risks for neosporosis. These results indicate that N. caninum infects goats in these regions, which may lead to reproductive problems.

Neosporose é uma doença infecciosa causada pelo parasito Neospora caninum. Nos caprinos, as informações sobre neosporose ainda são bastante limitadas, especialmente no Estado de Santa Catarina (SC), Sul do Brasil. Em virtude disso, este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a soroprevalência e os fatores de risco envolvidos na infecção por N. caninum em caprinos das regiões Oeste e Planalto Serrano do Estado de SC. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas de 654 caprinos em 57 cidades. A técnica de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI) foi usada para a detecção sorológica de anticorpos contra N. caninum. Trinta amostras (4,58%) foram soropositivas para o agente infeccioso com títulos variando entre 1:50 a 1:6400. Durante a coleta de sangue, um levantamento epidemiológico foi realizado para identificar fatores de risco para neosporose em caprinos. Problemas reprodutivos presentes nas fazendas, bem como a dieta e o contato direto com cães foram detectados como fatores de risco para a doença. Os resultados indicam que N. caninum infecta cabras nas regiões avaliadas, o que pode estar relacionado a problemas reprodutivos nesta espécie.

Eimeria infections in goats in Southern Portugal / Infeções por Eimeria em caprinos do Sul de Portugal

Coccidiosis caused by Eimeria species is a major form of intestinal infection affecting intensively and semi-intensively reared goats. The province of Alentejo is the main goat-producing area in Portugal. Therefore, all 15 Serpentina goat farms in Alentejo were analyzed regarding the occurrence and diversity of Eimeria species. Fecal samples obtained from 144 animals (52.1% dairy goats, 47.9% pre-pubertal goats) were examined using the modified McMaster technique to determine the number of oocysts per gram of feces. Eimeria spp. oocysts were present in 98.61% of the fecal samples and, overall, nine different Eimeria species were identified. The most prevalent species were E. ninakohlyakimovae (88%) and E. arloingi (85%), followed by E. alijevi (63%) and E. caprovina (63%). The average number of oocysts shed was significantly lower in dairy goats than in pre-adult animals. Astonishingly, no clinical signs of coccidiosis were observed in any of the animals examined, even though they were shedding high numbers of oocysts and were infected with highly pathogenic species. Thus, implementation of routine diagnostic investigation of the occurrence and diversity of caprine Eimeria species may be a useful tool for determination and better understanding of their potential economic impact on goat herds in southern Portugal.

A coccidiose causada por espécies de Eimeria é a maior infecção intestinal que afeta regimes intensivos e semi-intensivos de caprinos. A região do Alentejo é a mais importante na indústria caprina em Portugal. Assim, todas as 15 explorações de caprinos da raça Serpentina do Alentejo foram analisadas para determinar a frequência e diversidade de espécies de Eimeria presentes. Amostras fecais de 144 animais (52,1% adultas, 47,9% jovens) foram examinadas com a técnica de McMaster modificada para determinar o número de oocistos por grama de fezes. Oocistos de Eimeria spp. estavam presentes em 98,61% das amostras fecais e nove espécies distintas foram identificadas. As espécies mais frequentes foram E. ninakohlyakimovae (88%) e E. arloingi (85%), seguidas por E. alijevi (63%) e E. caprovina (63%). A média do número de oocistos excretados foi significativamente menor em adultas do que em jovens. Surpreendentemente, não foram observados quaisquer sinais clínicos em nenhum dos animais examinados, apesar de eliminarem elevados números de oocistos e de estarem infectados com espécies altamente patogénicas. A prática de diagnósticos de rotina para identificação de espécies de Eimeria caprinas pode ser um importante instrumento para o melhor entendimento do nefasto impacto da doença em explorações de caprinos no Sul de Portugal.

Nematode infection among ruminants in monsoon climate (Ban-Lahanam, Lao PDR) and its role as food-borne zoonosis / Infecção por nematóides em ruminantes nas monções (Ban-Lahanam, RPD do Laos) como zoonose transmitida por alimento

Trichostrongylids infection has gained significant public health importance since Trichostrongylus spp. infections have been reported in humans in Lao PDR. In this study, gastrointestinal nematodes were identified and the intensity of infections was determined in goats and cattle, which are animals greatly used for meat production in Lahanam Village, Lao PDR. The total number of goats and bovines was 23 and 29, respectively, pertaining to 32 households surveyed in the area. Feacal samples were randomly collected from 14 goats and 11 bovines. Ninety three percent (13/14) of goats and 36% (3/11) of cattle were infected, with an average of 1,728 and 86 eggs per gram of faeces (EPG), respectively. Coproculture showed Trichostrongylus spp. (goats 16%; bovines 48%), Haemonchus spp. (goats 69%; bovines 37%), Cooperia spp. (bovines 8%) and Oesophagostomum spp. (goats 15%; bovines 6%). After performing the necropsy on an adult goat, Trichuris spp. was also found. We confirmed the presence of Oesophagostomum spp., H. contortus and T. colubriformis by morphology and DNA sequencing analysis of the ITS region of rDNA. Due to interactions between humans and goats in Lahanam Village and high EPG results, the diagnosis of species and the intensity of gastrointestinal nematode infection in these animals are important public-health issues. Other ruminant parasites, such as Oesophagostomum and Haemonchus, found in caprines and bovines, are reported to be causes of zoonosis and their presence in humans should be investigated in future field surveys in this area.

Infecção por tricostrongilídeos ganhou significativa importância para a saúde pública, desde que infecções por Trichostrongylus spp. foram relatadas em humanos no Laos. Neste estudo, determinou-se a intensidade de verminoses gastrintestinais em caprinos e bovinos, importantes animais de produção na região de Lahanam Village, RPD do Laos. O número total de caprinos e bovinos foi 23 e 29, respectivamente, nas 32 famílias estudadas. Amostras de fezes foram coletadas, aleatoriamente, de 14 caprinos e 11 bovinos. Noventa e três por cento (13/14) dos caprinos e 36% (3/11) dos bovinos encontraram-se parasitados, com uma média de 1728 e 86 ovos por grama de fezes (OPG), respectivamente. Pela coprocultura, identificou-se Trichostrongylus spp. (caprinos 16%; bovinos48%), Haemonchus spp. (caprinos 69%; bovinos 37%), Cooperia spp. (bovinos 8%) e Oesophagostomum spp. (caprinos 15%; bovinos 6%). A necropsia de um caprino registrou também a presença de formas adultas de Trichuris spp. Morfologicamente e por análise do sequenciamento da região ITS do rDNA, foi confirmada a presença de Oesophagostomum spp., H. contortus e T. colubriformis. Devido às interações entre seres humanos e caprinos, em Lahanam Village, o alto OPG demonstrando o grau elevado de infecção por nematóides gastrintestinais nesses animais e a comprovação de espécies causadoras de zoonoses, aponta-se uma importante questão de saúde pública. Outros parasitos de ruminantes, como Oesophagostomum e Haemonchus, encontrados nos caprinos e bovinos estudados, são também relatados como agentes de zoonose, e sua presença em seres humanos deve ser investigada em futuras pesquisas de campo no local.

Occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in goats from the Western Santa Catarina, Brazil / Ocorrência de parasitas gastrintestinais em caprinos na região Oeste de Santa Catarina, Brasil

This study aims to investigate the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in goats from the Western Santa Catarina, Brazil. Twenty four farms were analyzed in 17 different municipalities. Animals (n=217) from different production purposes (milk and meat) and age were randomly chosen. Fecal samples were collected from the rectum stored in plastic bottles and transported to the laboratory in portable coolers at 10 °C. The technique of centrifugal flotation with saturated sugar solution was carried out in order to investigate the presence of eggs, cysts, and oocysts of gastrointestinal parasites. In 88.9% of the investigated animals, it was observed that the presence of nematode eggs which belongs to the Strongylida order, after cultivation and larvae identification were identified as Haemonchus spp., Trichostrongylus spp., Teladorsagia spp., Cooperia spp., and Oesophagostomum spp. Eggs of Thysanosoma, Trichuris, Moniezia, and Neoascaris genus were also observed. Additionally, the presence of oocysts of Eimeria spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. as well as cysts of Giardia spp., and Entamoeba spp. were verified. In all the farms evaluated, the animals showed a single or mixed infection, with the highest occurrence of helminths belonging to the Haemonchus and Trichostrongylus genus, as well as the protozoan Eimeria.

O presente estudo objetivou investigar a ocorrência de parasitas gastrointestinais que infectam caprinos na região Oeste de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Foram analisadas 24 propriedades localizadas em 17 municípios, totalizando 217 caprinos. Os animais de diferentes categorias de produção (leite ou carne) e idade foram escolhidos aleatoriamente. A coleta das fezes foi realizada diretamente da ampola retal dos animais, armazenadas em frascos plásticos e transportadas para o laboratório em caixas térmicas a 10 °C. A técnica de centrífugo-flutuação com solução saturada de açúcar foi utilizada para pesquisar a presença de ovos, cistos e oocistos de parasitos. Em 88,9% dos animais analisados foi verificada a presença de ovos de nematóides da ordem Strongylida e, após cultivo, foram identificadas larvas de Haemonchus spp., Trichostrongylus spp., Teladorsagia spp., Cooperia spp. e Oesophagostomum spp. Foram identificados também ovos de parasitos dos gêneros Thysanosoma, Trichuris, Moniezia e Neoascaris. A presença de oocistos de Eimeria spp. e Cryptosporidium spp., e cistos de Giardia spp., e Entamoeba spp. foram observadas. Em todas as propriedades avaliadas, os animais apresentavam infecções simples ou mistas, sendo a maior ocorrência de helmintos do gênero Haemonchus e Trichostrongylus, assim como pelo protozoário Eimeria.

Molecular Characterization of Gastrothylax crumenifer (Platyhelminthes: Gastrothylacidae) from Goats in the Western Part of India by LSU of Nuclear Ribosomal DNA

The rumen parasite, Gastrothylax crumenifer (Platyhelminthes: Gastrothylacidae), is a highly pathogenic trematode parasite of goat (Capra hircus). It sucks blood that causes acute disease like anemia, and severe economic losses occur due to morbidity and mortality of the ruminant infected by these worms. The study of these rumen paramphistomes, their infection, and public health importance remains unclear in India especially in the western part of state Uttar Pradesh (U.P.), Meerut, India, where the goat meat consumption is very high. This paper provides the molecular characterization of G. crumenifer recovered from the rumen of Capra hircus from Meerut, U.P., India by the partial sequence of 28S rDNA. Nucleotide sequence similarity searching on BLAST of 28S rDNA from parasites showed the highest identity with those of G. crumenifer from the same host Capra hircus. This is the first report of molecular identification of G. crumenifer from this part of India.

Frequency of benzimidazole resistance in Haemonchus contortus populations isolated from buffalo, goat and sheep herds / Frequência da resistência ao benzimidazol em populações de Haemonchus contortus isoladas de rebanhos de bubalinos, caprinos e ovinos

Anthelmintic resistance is an increasing problem that threatens livestock production worldwide. Understanding of the genetic basis of benzimidazole resistance recently allowed the development of promising molecular diagnostic tools. In this study, isolates of Haemonchus contortus obtained from goats, sheep and buffaloes raised in Brazil were screened for presence of the polymorphism Phe200Tyr in the β-tubulin 1 gene, which confers resistance to benzimidazole. The allelic frequency of the mutation conferring resistance ranged from 7% to 43%, and indicated that resistance to benzimidazole could be found in nematodes isolated from all the ruminant species surveyed. Although significant variation in the frequency of the F200Y mutation was observed between different herds or host species, no significant variation could be found in populations isolated from animals within the same herd. These findings suggest that screening of samples from a few animals has the potential to provide information about the benzimidazole resistance status of the entire herd, which would enable a considerable reduction in the costs of diagnosis for the producer. Molecular diagnosis has practical advantages, since it can guide the choice of anthelmintic drug that will be used, before its application in the herd, thus reducing the economic losses driven by anthelmintic resistance.

A resistência aos anti-helmínticos é um problema crescente que ameaça a produção pecuária em todo o mundo. A compreensão da base genética da resistência ao benzimidazol permitiu, recentemente, o desenvolvimento de métodos diagnósticos moleculares promissores. Neste estudo, isolados de Haemonchus contortus obtidos a partir de rebanhos de caprinos, ovinos e bubalinos criados no Brasil foram avaliados quanto à presença do polimorfismo F200Y no gene da β-tubulina1, o qual confere resistência ao benzimidazol. A frequência alélica da mutação variou de 7% a 43%, indicando que a resistência ao benzimidazol pode ser encontrada em nematoides isolados a partir de todas as espécies de ruminantes pesquisadas. Embora tenha sido observada variação significativa das frequências de mutação F200Y entre rebanhos/espécies hospedeiros distintos, não foi encontrada variação significativa entre populações isoladas de animais dentro de um mesmo rebanho. Estes achados sugerem que a avaliação de amostras de alguns poucos animais tem o potencial de fornecer informações sobre o nível de resistência ao benzimidazol de todo o rebanho, possibilitando uma redução considerável dos custos de diagnóstico para o produtor. O diagnóstico molecular apresenta vantagens práticas, uma vez que pode guiar a escolha da base anti-helmíntica a ser utilizada antes da sua aplicação no rebanho, reduzindo, portanto, as perdas ocasionadas pela resistência aos fármacos anti-helmínticos.

Fasciola hepatica infection and association with gastrointestinal parasites in Creole goats from western Argentina / Fasciola hepatica infecção e associação com parasitas gastrintestinais em caprinos crioulos do oeste da Argentina

Goats, called "the cow of the poor", are the livestock species with the most significant population growth worldwide in recent years. Gastrointestinal parasitism constitutes one of the main constraints to its outdoor and extensive breeding in temperate and tropical countries. Despite a Creole goat population of nearly 4 million heads, local reports on parasitological prevalence are scarce, and while Fasciola hepatica infection is spread all over Argentina, the goat is usually neglected as a reservoir and economic losses are not considered. To evaluate gastrointestinal parasitism prevalence and associations between parasite genera and species, with emphasis on fascioliasis, Creole goats from the plateau and Andean regions from western Argentina were investigated by coprological techniques, and associations were statistically assessed. Eighty-five percent (85%) of the animals harbored one or more parasite types, while 46% showed mixed infections. Significant positive associations between F. hepatica + Strongyle eggs, Eimeria sp. + Nematodirus sp. andNematodirus sp. + Trichuris oviswere detected. Further studies are required to define the causality of these associations and their relevance in epidemiology. F. hepaticais rarely considered as goat parasite in the country, but a 33% prevalence poses an interrogation on the role goats play on the transmission and dissemination of this zoonotic trematode.

As cabras, nomeadas como "a vaca dos pobres", são as espécies de gado com o crescimento populacional mais significativo nos últimos anos em todo o mundo. O parasitismo gastrintestinal constitui uma das principais limitações à sua criação extensiva em clima temperado e tropical. Na Argentina, apesar de uma população de caprinos crioulos de cerca de quatro milhões de cabeças, são escassos os relatórios locais de prevalências parasitológicas. Embora a infecção por Fasciola hepatica esteja espalhada em todo o país, as cabras são geralmente negligenciadas como um reservatório, e as perdas econômicas não são consideradas. Para avaliar a prevalência do parasitismo gastrintestinal e associações entre os gêneros e espécies de parasitos, com ênfase na fasciolose, caprinos crioulos da região andina e do planalto do oeste de Argentina foram avaliados por meio de técnicas coprológicas. Oitenta e cinco por cento dos animais hospedaram um ou mais tipos de parasitos, enquanto 46% hospedaram infecções mistas. Foram encontradas associações significativas entre F. hepatica+ ovos de estrongilídeos, Eimeria sp. +Nematodirus sp. e Nematodirus sp. +Trichuris ovis. Mais estudos são necessários para definir a causalidade dessas associações e sua relevância na epidemiologia. Raramente F. hepatica é considerada como um parasito de cabra no país, mas uma prevalência de 33% suscita uma interrogação sobre o papel dos caprinos na transmissão e disseminação desse trematódeo zoonótico.

Molecular Characterization of Taenia multiceps Isolates from Gansu Province, China by Sequencing of Mitochondrial Cytochrome C Oxidase Subunit 1

A total of 16 Taenia multiceps isolates collected from naturally infected sheep or goats in Gansu Province, China were characterized by sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene. The complete cox1 gene was amplified for individual T. multiceps isolates by PCR, ligated to pMD18T vector, and sequenced. Sequence analysis indicated that out of 16 T. multiceps isolates 10 unique cox1 gene sequences of 1,623 bp were obtained with sequence variation of 0.12-0.68%. The results showed that the cox1 gene sequences were highly conserved among the examined T. multiceps isolates. However, they were quite different from those of the other Taenia species. Phylogenetic analysis based on complete cox1 gene sequences revealed that T. multiceps isolates were composed of 3 genotypes and distinguished from the other Taenia species.

Occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in goat kids / Ocorrência de parasitos gastrintestinais em cabritos

Fecal samples from male and female goat kids, of different breeds and up to one year of age, were analyzed to determine egg and oocyst counts per gram of feces (EPG and OPG, respectively), and fecal culturing was performed to identify nematode genera. Helminth eggs and Eimeria spp. oocysts were found in 93.06% (188/202) and 77.22% (156/202) of the fecal samples, respectively. From fecal cultures, the following genera were identified: Cooperia in 11.88% (24/202), Haemonchus in 51.98% (105/202), Oesophagostomum in 9.4% (19/202), Strongyloides in 5.94 (12/202) and Trichostrongylus in 20.79% (42/202) of the samples. The Eimeria species found were E. alijevi in 25.24% (51/202), E. arloingi in 7.42% (15/202), E. caprina in 2.97% (6/202), E. caprovina in 10.39% (21/202), E. christenseni in 4.45% (9/202), E. joklchijevi in 11.38% (23/202), E. hirci in 9.4% (19/202) and E. ninakohlyakimovae in 28.71% (58/202) samples. Among the gastrointestinal parasites, the genus Haemonchus and two Eimeria species (E. ninakohlyakimovae and E. alijevi) were predominants.

Amostras fecais de cabritos machos e fêmeas, de diferentes raças e com até uma ano de idade, foram examinadas para determinação do número de ovos e oocistos por grama de fezes (OPG e OoPG, respectivamente) e coprocultura para identificação genérica dos nematódeos. Ovos de helmintos e oocistos de Eimeria spp. foram observados em 93,06% (188/202) e 77,22% (156/202) das amostras, respectivamente. Pelas coproculturas, foram identificados os gêneros Cooperia em 11,88% (24/202), Haemonchus em 51,98% (105/202), Oesophagostomum em 9,4% (19/202), Strongyloides em 5,94 (12/202) e Trichostrongylus em 20,79% (42/202) das amostras. As espécies de Eimeria encontradas foram E. alijevi em 25,24% (51/202), E. arloingi em 7,42% (15/202), E. caprina em 2,97% (6/202), E. caprovina em 10,39% (21/202), E. christenseni em 4,45% (9/202), E. joklchijevi em 11,38% (23/202), E. hirci em 9,4% (19/202) e E. ninakohlyakimovae em 28,71% (58/202) das amostras. Dentre os parasitas gastrintestinais, houve predominância do gênero Haemonchus e de duas espécies de Eimeria: E. ninakohlyakimovae e E. alijevi.

Gastrointestinal parasites in goats from Monte Castelo, Santa Catarina, Brazil / Parasitas gastrintestinais em caprinos de Monte Castelo, Santa Catarina, Brasil

This study was carried out with the aim of estimating the degree of gastrointestinal helminth infection in goats on the Northern Plateau of Santa Catarina. Twelve young females and 11 adult females were used. Every 28 days, feces samples were taken to quantify the nematode eggs per gram of feces (EPG). Larval culturing was performed on a pool of positive samples from the same group. The fecal egg counts (FECs) ranged from zero to 10,400 EPG in the young group and zero to 7,600 EPG in the adult group. The mean FECs were between 583.3 and 4441.7 in the young group and between 418.2 and 2181.8 in the adult group. Eggs of the order Strongylida and genera Moniezia and Toxocara, and oocysts of Coccidia, were observed. The young animals were more affected and Haemonchus was the most prevalent genus in the samples.

Este trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de estimar o grau de infecção dos helmintos gastrintestinais em um rebanho caprino criado no Planalto Norte Catarinense. Foram utilizadas 12 fêmeas jovens e 11 adultas, das quais, a cada 28 dias, foram coletadas amostras de fezes diretamente do reto, totalizando 12 coletas, para quantificação de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG) e cultivo de larvas através de "pool" das amostras positivas do mesmo grupo. A contagem de OPG variou de zero a 10.400 nos animais jovens e de zero a 7.600 nos adultos. As médias do OPG entre as coletas foram de 583,3 a 4.441,7 no grupo jovem e de 418,2 a 2.181,8 nos adultos, sendo observados ovos da ordem Strongylida, dos gêneros Moniezia e Toxocara, bem como oocistos de coccídeos. Os animais mais jovens foram os mais acometidos, sendo o gênero Haemonchus o mais prevalente.

Cloning and characterization of a selenium-independent glutathione peroxidase (HC29) from adult Haemonchus contortus

The complete coding sequence of Haemonchus (H.) contortus HC29 cDNA was generated by rapid amplification of cDNA ends in combination with PCR using primers targeting the 5'- and 3'-ends of the partial mRNA sequence. The cloned HC29 cDNA was shown to be 1,113 bp in size with an open reading frame of 507 bp, encoding a protein of 168 amino acid with a calculated molecular mass of 18.9 kDa. Amino acid sequence analysis revealed that the cloned HC29 cDNA contained the conserved catalytic triad and dimer interface of selenium-independent glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Alignment of the predicted amino acid sequences demonstrated that the protein shared 44.7~80.4% similarity with GPX homologues in the thioredoxin-like family. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close evolutionary proximity of the GPX sequence to the counterpart sequences. These results suggest that HC29 cDNA is a GPX, a member of the thioredoxin-like family. Alignment of the nucleic acid and amino acid sequences of HC29 with those of the reported selenium-independent GPX of H. contortus showed that HC29 contained different types of spliced leader sequences as well as dimer interface sites, although the active sites of both were identical. Enzymatic analysis of recombinant prokaryotic HC29 protein showed activity for the hydrolysis of H2O2. These findings indicate that HC29 is a selenium-independent GPX of H. contortus.

Occurrence and risk factors associated with infection by Toxoplasma gondii in goats in the State of Alagoas, Brazil / Ocorrência e fatores de risco associados à infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em caprinos do Estado de Alagoas

INTRODUCTION: Goats are considered very susceptible to infection by Toxoplasma gondii and when this occurs during pregnancy, it may cause fetal death with subsequent fetal resorption, abortion, mummification, stillborn or the birth of weak goats. The objective of this work was to determine the occurrence of and identify risk factors for T. gondii infection in goats in different mesoregions in the State of Alagoas. METHODS: The research was conducted on 24 goat breeding farms in 10 municipalities. A total of 454 blood samples were examined for anti-T. gondii antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test. To evaluate the risk factors of toxoplasmosis in goats, questionnaires were applied analyzing the farm's production system and nutritional, reproductive and sanitary management. RESULTS: Disease occurrence was 39 percent with 95.8 percent of farms presenting seropositive animals. Significant associations were observed for mesoregion (OR = 0.23; 95 percentCI = 0.09 - 0.57), age (OR = 0.36; 95 percentCI = 0.20 - 0.64), semi-intensive herd management (OR = 8.70; 95 percentCI = 1.87 - 40.43), access of cats to water provided for goats (OR = 3.38; 95 percentCI = 1.89-6.02) and cats feeding on placental remnants (OR = 2.73; 95 percentCI = 1.38 - 5.40). CONCLUSIONS: Toxoplasma gondii infection is disseminated in the State of Alagoas and the adoption of a program that monitors infection foci is required to reduce the risk factors identified in the present study.

INTRODUÇÃO: Caprinos são considerados susceptíveis à infecção por Toxoplasma gondii que quando ocorre durante a gestação pode causar morte fetal com subsequente reabsorção, aborto, mumificação, natimortos ou nascimento de cabritos fracos. Objetivou-se com este estudo determinar a ocorrência e identificar os fatores de risco associados à infecção por T. gondii em caprinos nas diferentes mesorregiões do Estado de Alagoas. MÉTODOS: A pesquisa foi realizada em 10 municípios, sendo analisadas 24 propriedades de produção caprina com aptidão mista. Foram coletadas amostras sanguíneas de 454 animais para realização da pesquisa de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii através da prova sorológica de imunofluorescência indireta. Para o estudo dos fatores de risco, foram aplicados questionários com questões referentes ao sistema de produção e manejos nutricional, reprodutivo e sanitário. RESULTADOS: A ocorrência encontrada foi de 39 por cento com 95,8 por cento das propriedades apresentando animais positivos. Foi observada associação significativa para as variáveis: mesorregião (OR = 0,23; IC 95 por cento = 0,09 - 0,57), idade (OR = 0,36; IC 95 por cento = 0,20 - 0,64), sistema de criação semi-intensivo (OR = 8,70; IC 95 por cento = 1,87 - 40,43), acesso dos gatos à água fornecida aos animais (OR = 3,38; IC 95 por cento = 1,89 - 6,02) e gatos se alimentando de restos placentários (OR = 2,73; IC 95 por cento = 1,38 - 5,40). CONCLUSÕES: A infecção por T. gondii está disseminada no Estado de Alagoas, sendo necessária a realização de um programa de monitoramento dos focos da infecção no Estado com objetivo de reduzir os fatores de riscos identificados no presente estudo.

In-vitro predatory activity of nematophagous fungi from Costa Rica with potential use for controlling sheep and goat parasitic nematodes

In tropical and subtropical regions of the world, parasitic diseases are a main cause of losses in livestock productivity. The increased acquired resistence to anthelmintics by gastrointestinal nematodes, requires biological control be considered as a potential feasible and effective alternative. The most effective natural soil enemies of nematodes are nematophagous fungi. In order to collect and identify predator nematophagous fungi (PNF), samples were obtained from 51 farms distributed throughout the seven provinces of Costa Rica. The origin samples included: soil from different crops (potatoes, tomatoes, bananas, ornamental plants, squash and coffee); animal feces (cattle, sheep, goat and horse); soil and fallen leaves from forest; and plants with signs of nematode infection. Each sample was processed using three techniques for the extraction of fungi from soil: sprinkling technique, soil dilution and humidity chamber. Twenty four strains of nematophagous fungi were found in 19 farms; 83.3% of the fungi were isolated by sprinkling technique. The following fungi were idenified: Arthrobotrys oligospora (n=13); Candelabrella musiformis (n=9); and for the first time there was isolation of A. conoides (n=1) and A. dactyloides (n=1) in the country. Moreover, 16 strains from Trichoderma (n=13), Beauveria (n=1), Clonostachys (n=1) and Lecanicillium (n=1) were obtained. In addition, pH of each possible fungal isolation source was measured, and it varied from 5.2 to 9.9, however PNF isolates fell within the range of 5.6 to 7.5. The PNF strains were cultivated in four different media for the production of chhlamydospores: potato dextrose agar (PDA); corn meal agar (CMA); malt extract agar (MEA) and potato carrot agar (PCA). Out of these cultures, 95.8% of the strains formed chlamydospores primarily in the PCA. Of these strains, the profilic spore producers were subjected to ruminant artificial gastrointestinal conditions. A total of 14 fungi were tested, out of which 42.9% survived the digestive analysis. Neither A. conoides nor A. dactyloides were viable following the in vitro gastrointestinal test. The PNF isolated in this study demostrated an action against ovine and caprine gastrointestinal nematodes and are candidates for use in biological control of these organisms. Among these microorganisms, Candelabrella musiformis appears to be the most promising fungi for use as a biological control agent in Costa Rica. Rev. Biol. Trop. 59 (1): 37-52. Epub 2011 March 01.

El control biológico es en la actualidad una alternativa para el control de los nematodos gastrointestinales que desarrollaron resistencia a los principales grupos de antihelmínticos. Para el aislamiento e identificación de hongos nematófagos depredadores, se tomaron muestras de 51 fincas distribuidas entre todas las provincias de Costa Rica. La naturaleza de las muestras incluyó: suelos de diferentes sembradíos (papa, tomate, banano, plantas ornamentales, chayote y café), heces de animales (bovinos, ovinos, caprinos y equinos), suelo y hojarasca de bosques y plantas con signos de enfermedad causada por nematodos. Las muestras se procesaron mediante 3 técnicas diferentes para la extracción de hongos a partir del suelo: espolvoreado en placa, dilución de suelos y cámara húmeda. Veinticuatro cepas de hongos nematófagos fueron aisladas de 19 fincas; el 83.3% de éstos fueron aislados mediante las técnica de espolvoreado en placa. Los hongos fueron identificados como: Arthrobotrys oligospora (n=13), Candelabrella musiformis (n=9) y por primera vez se reporta el aislamiento de A. conoides (n=1) y A. dactyloides (n=1) en el país. Asimismo, se aislaron 16 cepas de hongos de los géneros Trichoderma (n=13), Beauveria (n=1), Clonostachys (n=1) y Lecanicillium (n=1). Adicionalmente se les midió el pH, el cual varió entre 5.2-9.9, ubicándose los HND dentro de un rango entre 5.6-7.5. Las cepas de HND fueron cultivadas en 4 medios diferentes para la producción de clamidosporas: papa dextrosa agar, harina de maíz, extracto de malta y agar papa-zanahoria. El 95.8% de las cepas aisladas produjeron clamidosporas, principalmente en el medio agar papa-zanahoria. De estas cepas, se escogieron las de mayor producción para ser sometidas a la prueba de digestibilidad in vitro. Un total de 14 cepas fueron sometidos a esta prueba, de las cuales el 42.9% resultaron viables; de éstas, las cepas de A. conoides y A. dactyloides no sobrevivieron a la prueba de digestibilidad in vitro. De los microorganismos aislados, Candelabrella musiformis se considera el más promisorio de los hongos como agente biológico en Costa Rica.

Study on gastrointestinal parasitic infections of Raeini goats

Raeini breed is the most productive Cashmere goat in Iran. Helminthes infections cause major economic losses globally to the livestock industries and farming communities. The objective of this study was to determine the seasonal prevalence and intensity of Eimeria and gastrointestinal helminth parasitic infections in Raeini goats in Iran. A total of 438 faecal samples were randomly taken from clinically healthy goats in Raeini Goats Research Center of Iran. Faecal samples were collected from each goat once and eggs per gram of faeces [EPG] and faecal oocysts counts [OPG] were estimated using the modified McMaster technique. Oocysts were found in 391 [89.27%] goats. Five species of Eimeria including, E. arloingi, E. parva, E. ninakohlyakimovae, E. christenseni, E. faorei and one Eimeria spp were identified in faecal samples. E. arloingi [92.07%] predominated in all categories and was followed by E. parva, E. ninakohlyakimovae and E. christenseni. Trichuris spp. egg was the only nematode egg which was found in 196 [44.75%] faecal samples. The prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthes infections during autumn and winter were significantly higher than summer [P<0.05]. The association between the prevalence of Eimeria oocysts and gastrointestinal nematode infection and the age or sex categories was not significant [P>0.05]

Hematological and Serum Biochemical Analyses in Experimental Caprine Besnoitiosis

This study was undertaken to investigate the hematological and biochemical changes in experimentally infected goats with Besnoitia caprae from the time of infection till 360 days post-infection (PI). Six male goats were inoculated subcutaneously with 13x10(7) bradyzoites of B. caprae, and blood samples were collected from the jugular vein. The total erythrocyte and total leukocyte counts, hematocrit value, and differential leukocyte counts were determined. Serum biochemical analysis, including the total protein, albumin, total globulin, cholesterol, triglyceride, chloride, testosterone, calcium (Ca2+), inorganic phosphorus, sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), iron (Fe2+), glucose, serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp), fibrinogen, ceruloplasmin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, and alkaline phosphatase, was undertaken. Skin biopsy from the limbs were collected at weekly intervals and histologically examined for Besnoitia cysts. Cysts were present in the skin biopsies of the leg of the infected goats from day 28 PI. There were variations in hematological analyses, but no significant difference was seen. From day 30 to 360 PI, results showed that SAA, Hp, fibrinogen, and ceruloplasmin concentrations increased, whereas testosterone concentrations decreased. Infected goats exhibited decrease of albumin and increase of serum total protein and globulin concentrations. By contrast, there were no significant differences in the remained analyses concentrations.

Characterization of HC58cDNA, a putative cysteine protease from the parasite Haemonchus contortus

Because of the complexity of the cathepsin B-like (CBL) family, an information on the biological and biochemical characteristics of individual CBL genes is lacking. In this study, we investigated the degradative effects of the recombinant HC58 protein isolated from Haemonchus contortus parasites on protein substrates over a broad pH range in vitro. This protein, which hydrolyzed the synthetic peptide substrates Z-FR-AMC and Z-RR-AMC, had characteristics of the cysteine protease class of proteins. In the acidic pH range, the isolated protein actively degraded hemoglobin (Hb), the heavy chain of goat immunoglobulin G, and azocasein. By contrast, it degraded fibrinogen in the alkaline pH range. These activities were strongly inhibited in the presence of the cysteine protease inhibitor E-64. While the protein digested Hb, it did not induce the agglutination of erythrocytes from its natural host. These results suggest that the HC58 protein may play a role in the nutrition of this parasite.